Jesmond Dene House

The patisserie chef is very talented, and the afternoon tea was remarkable value at the price we paid, without a voucher. The food and staff were absolutely fine, too. The building is a true Arts and Crafts property, with good parking and several beautiful, atmospheric public rooms. The Christmas decorations in the entrance were exquisite and created expectations of a festive dining room with a real wow factor. Unfortunately, the area where we sat didn’t feel festive at all. I suspect it was the room used for breakfast: grey walls and not even a Christmas tree. If you’re booking at Christmas, I’d suggest asking where you’ll be seated.

The morning meal was a highlight. Sitting in the restaurant’s garden area with dim lighting and soft music made breakfast feel lovely, and the food was tasty with good portions. I’d definitely come back for a longer visit. I was there for one night on a work trip to Newcastle in December. The property is a huge mansion surrounded by greenery, all dressed up for Christmas. It was freezing outside when I arrived, but the inside was warm and cosy. My room was comfortable and had all the essentials, and the staff were friendly and polite.

The meeting rooms were well equipped and properly professional, spaces where you can get actual work done. I spent two nights here on a business trip, and the hotel left a good impression. It’s charming and tucked away, with a quiet English elegance that feels increasingly rare. The rooms were comfortable and the service attentive, with nothing to fault there. Breakfast leans heavily towards traditional English food. A few more continental or international choices would be welcome for those of us coming from different food backgrounds. Not everyone wants beans and black pudding first thing. Just a suggestion, though, not a complaint. I’d happily return.

We’ve stayed twice and love the old property, with its beautiful Victorian features. It’s a gracious, historic place, with strong ties to industrialist and engineer William Armstrong, who owned Jesmond Dene. The hotel sits right beside the Dene, which is lovely to walk through. There’s fine dining as well as food in the bar and lounge. The dining and lounge rooms are gorgeous, especially at Christmas. Well worth a stay if you’re after somewhere old and full of character.